Ever wondered what actually happens behind closed doors at a wine competition? How do judges decide what makes a wine exceptional and what separates a gold medal from the rest?

In this episode of Wine in Focus, Palesa Mapheelle is joined by local wine doyenne, Michael Fridjhon and Wine Master and international judge, Heidi Makinen.

Together, they explain the rigorous judging process of the Investec Trophy Wine Show, what they look for in a winning wine, how to navigate judges’ disagreements and the importance of wine competitions to the local wine industry.

KEY MOMENTS:

00:00: Intro

00:38: Recognising the devastating storms suffered by the Western Cape winelands

01:47: Why are competitions necessary?

03:23: Comparing Investec Trophy Wine Show to other international competitions

04:26: Shaping consumer perceptions

05:43: The mechanics of judging

09:09: Judge’s chemistry

10:07: Explaining a flight of wines

10:34: Finding consensus between judges

13:47: Ensuring judge neutrality

15:14: The importance of blind tasting

18:00: What makes a winning wine?

20:20: SA wine industry transformation over 25 years: from bulk to beautiful

23:13: The Investec Trophy wine show “guarantee”

24:33: When wine turns from interest into a passion and a career

27:00: Outro Investec Trophy Wine Show · Investec Focus Radio SA